(a) The purpose of the PCRRC (hereinafter referred to as the "Commission"), is to improve communication between the City of Oxford Police Division and the community, increase police accountability and credibility with the public, and to create a fair and impartial complaint process. The objectives of the Commission are to advise the Chief of Police, the City Manager, the Civil Service Commission, and the City Council about matters relating to the policies and procedures of the Oxford Police Division (hereinafter referred to as "OPD"), the training of law enforcement personnel, hiring procedures, and such other questions as may seem pertinent to the safety and protection of the citizenry. The Commission will take citizens' complaints about officer misconduct and review any investigation of misconduct, thereby increasing police accountability to the community and community trust in the OPD. The Commission may make recommendations concerning police policies, procedures, hiring, training, and the complaint process.
(b) The Commission shall consist of seven (7) members appointed by the City Council. All members shall be residents of the City of Oxford and be at least 18 years old at the time of appointment. Council shall endeavor to reflect community diversity in its appointments. Four members will initially be appointed to serve three-year terms and three members will initially be appointed to two-year terms. Thereafter, the Commission members shall be appointed to three-year terms. Members of the Commission shall serve without compensation.
(c) Members are encouraged to attend the Oxford Citizens Police Academy, at least one weekend late evening "ride along" with the OPD, or other training activities and events sponsored by the National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement.
(d) City of Oxford employees shall not be eligible to be members of the Commission with the exception of the City Manager or designee who shall be an ex-officio member without a vote.
(Ord. 3339. Passed 12-1-15.)